The National Museum of Health and Medicine, a Department of Defense museum, was established in 1862 and inspires interest in and promotes the understanding of medicine - past, present, and future - with a special emphasis on tri-service American military medicine.

As a National Historic Landmark recognized for its ongoing value to the health of the military and to the nation, the Museum identifies, collects, and preserves important and unique resources to support a broad agenda of innovative exhibits, educational programs, and scientific, historical, and medical research. In its current configuration and new location, the NMHM is poised for broadened attention and use by scholars, scientists and the public at large.